In 1851, a man named Cornelius Ahern moved to the village of Florence,​and began to seek out other Catholics in the area. He started holding mass in his home, with Father Butler of Covington leading the parishioners. ​ As interest grew, it became clear that a church building was needed. ​ Funds were raised by a number of area priests and parishioners,​ and a small church was built on Shelby Street. ​ The little frame building was dedicated in 1856 and cost $600. ​

In 1851, a man named Cornelius Ahern moved to the village of Florence,​and began to seek out other Catholics in the area. He started holding mass in his home, with Father Butler of Covington leading the parishioners. ​ As interest grew, it became clear that a church building was needed. ​ Funds were raised by a number of area priests and parishioners,​ and a small church was built on Shelby Street. ​ The little frame building was dedicated in 1856 and cost $600. ​